Getting to know the rural neighbours

Albertans are again being invited to discover where their food comes from with the sixth annual Alberta Open Farm Days Aug. 18 and 19.

“Open Farm Days is back for another incredible weekend of delicious food, family friendly entertainment and rural hospitality,” said Alberta Minister of Culture and Tourism Ricardo Miranda.

More than 110 farms, ranches and other host sites will open their doors to the public for culinary events, demonstrations and open houses on August. 18 and 19.

The event works to bring the province’s fast-growing rural tourism to the forefront and shine a light on what farm life is like in Alberta.

“The event helps people learn more about where their food comes from and supports rural tourism operators across the province,” said Miranda.

Alberta Open Farm Days is split into two major event categories, farm tours and culinary events.

On the tours, participating farms will typically offer educational tours of their operation, opportunities to purchase locally grown or homemade products, and offer activities such as hayrides, petting zoos, and corn mazes.

While admission to the participating farms is free, some of the offered activities may have a cost.

The culinary events pair top Alberta chefs with local producers to prepare delicious and unique dishes from locally grown produce and products.

The culinary events are ticketed, and people are encouraged to buy their tickets in advance as the events may sell out.

“Alberta has some of the best farmers and food producers in the world,” said Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Oneil Carlier.

“Open Farm Days is a great opportunity for Albertans to support this industry and meet the people who put food on their tables,” he said.

While events are hosted across the province, looking locally, TK Ranch located just northeast of Chestermere will be participating with livestock handling demonstrations, stock dog presentations, an on-farm store, product sampling, and workshops.

For more information visit the Alberta Open Farm Days website at albertafarmdays.ca.